City Thanks the Community, Volunteers and Sponsors for an Unforgettable Celebration
Maple Ridge, B.C., Sept. 17, 2024— The City of Maple Ridge marked its 150th Anniversary with record-breaking attendance at the highly anticipated Our Neck of the Woods Festival, bringing the community together for a day filled with excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable moments.
Held on September 14, the festival transformed Memorial Peace Park and the downtown area into a vibrant celebration of Maple Ridge’s heritage, culture, and community spirit. The event drew an estimated 15,000 attendees, creating an unforgettable milestone in the City’s history.
"What a party! We couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate our City’s 150th anniversary," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "From the opening welcome by the Katzie First Nation at noon to the final notes of The Strumbellas' performance, this was a day filled with wonderful memories as we delivered the biggest birthday party in the City’s incorporation while honouring Katzie (q̓ic̓əy̓) and Kwantlen (Qw’ó’el) First Nations since time immemorial."
Event Highlights
As the largest festival in Maple Ridge's history, Our Neck of the Woods had something for everyone, with activities, food, and entertainment for all ages. By noon, the streets were buzzing with energy, and as the sun broke through at 3:30 pm, the perfect backdrop set the stage for a day to remember.
Key highlights of the event included:
- Golden Ears Stage: The main stage featured an all-star lineup of Canadian talent:
George Leach delivered a thrilling last-minute set of rock and blues, stepping in for another artist and wowing the crowd.- Dawn Pemberton had the audience on their feet with her dynamic performance, known for its energy and soul.
- Local favourite Aaron Pritchett brought nostalgic vibes with his ‘Rooster’s Reunion,’ featuring 90s medleys and his hit song Hold My Beer While I Kiss Your Girlfriend.
- The Strumbellas closed out the night with a spectacular, hit-filled set that had the entire park singing and dancing under the stars.
- Community Engagement and Cultural Celebrations: Memorial Peace Park was full of families and kids enjoying interactive zones throughout the day, including the Haney Farmers Market, the Soar Over Maple Ridge Zipline, presented by Brimming Development, the Kanaka Kids Stage presented in concert with Polygon Homes and Morningstar Homes, the TransLink Car Free Zone Street Party. The Katzie Canoe Family supported by LiUNA Local 1611, Campfire Story Sessions presented by Meadowridge School and the Indigenous Market and Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association’s Shop Local Market captivated audiences.
"When Council took the stage before The Strumbellas set to thank our sponsors, there were people as far as the eye could see in Memorial Peace Park," Mayor Ruimy reflected. "The energy was electric as the crowds danced and sang together. Feedback on the event has been overwhelmingly positive, with people sharing they want more of these events."
A Heartfelt Thank You to the Community
Mayor Ruimy extended his deepest gratitude to the residents of Maple Ridge for their overwhelming support and participation.
"Thank you to everyone who came out to be part of this milestone. This event would not have been possible without the incredible production crew, City staff, and the many volunteers who worked tirelessly into the night to pull it off. This festival was not just a celebration of the city’s history but also of our community’s spirit and the exciting future we are building together."
Partners and Sponsors
"We are grateful David Eby, the Premier of B.C., was able to make it out along with all our partners and sponsors who made the event possible," said Mayor Ruimy. "The overwhelming success of this event has set the stage for more great things to come to Maple Ridge."
- Event Partners: Here & Now Productions and TF Event Company
- Title Sponsors: The Province of British Columbia, Car Free Day TransLink, Morningstar Homes, Meadowridge School, Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association, Brimming Development, and Polygon Homes
- Gold Sponsors: Port of Vancouver and Ridge Meadows College
- Silver Sponsors: Haney Place Mall and LiUNA Local 1611, Foamer’s Folly Brewing\
- Bronze Sponsors: Vancity, The Justice Institute of British Columbia and Fortis BC
- Partner Sponsors: Sunbelt Rentals, Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows News, 102.7 The Peak, 93.7 JR Country, Greater Vancouver Food Truck Festival, BC Ale Trail, and Global BC
For more information on the City’s 150th Anniversary celebrations, please visit www.mapleridge.ca/mr150. Photos available at https://www.facebook.com/yourmapleridge.
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Media Contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T: 604-466-4319 C: 778-955-4249
E: ppurewal@mapleridge.ca